Common Risk Factors for Foot Ulcers

by MASS4D® InsolesJune 01, 2017

Share:

The prevention and management of foot ulcers, especially in patients with diabetes, is very important to protect them from more serious foot problems. Poor management of foot ulcers, in severe cases, may increase the risk of amputations.

It is important for patients to understand the causes of diabetic foot ulcers and how these can impact the feet and the lower body. This information can be valuable in helping them learn about what preventative care strategies will be best suited for them.

Risk Factors

Early examination of foot ulcers and their effects is crucial, considering the risk of disease and mortality associated with the condition.

According to a study by the European Study Group on Diabetes and the Lower Extremity, peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage) and peripheral arterial disease (narrowing of blood vessels) were identified as major risk factors in developing diabetic foot ulcers. The conditions were present in 49% and 86% of the patients respectively.

An Australian study published by the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research identified smoking as another major risk factor for peripheral arterial disease, as more than half of subjects were either smokers or ex-smokers. Increasing age was also established as a contributing factor to chronic wounds, as older cells lack the capability to recover faster and are less responsive to stress.

Another observation from the study was that more than half of the patients were overweight and obese. Weight-related issues can increase the risk of cardiac-related diseases and make it difficult for the patient to keep the excessive weight off the feet. This was backed up by a study in Current Diabetes Review.

Foot posture problems, such as flat feet, can also be a contributing factor for foot ulcers. As the foot flattens on the ground, it may cause uneven distribution of pressure to the feet, which increases the risk of inflammation in stress-prone areas.

Preventing foot ulcers, especially in diabetics, should be a top priority. A 2015 study investigating the effectiveness of treatment options found that foot care involving foot skin temperature monitoring, preventative care and use of therapeutic footwear was effective in preventing ulcers.

Using therapeutic shoes with fully customised insoles can help diabetics from developing diabetic foot ulcers. These insoles help promote proper distribution of weight and maintain optimal joint range of motion to limit abnormal foot movements.

MASS4D® full-contact insoles help support the feet in their healthiest posture which reduces pressure in high-risk areas and allows the ulcers to heal properly.

MASS4D® custom insoles are available with a special Bi-Lam top cover that features a double cushion layer to protect against blisters and ulcerations. This offers adequate heel and forefoot support to reduce pressure on the bottom surface of the foot.

Chat with us to learn more about MASS4D® and to find certified providers near you.

Leave a comment

Also in Articles

Obesity can make you vulnerable to a number of health conditions such as diabetes and heart diseases. However, it can also have an impact on the health of your feet, increasing the risk of painful foot conditions.

Most people with Morton's neuroma describe a sharp or stinging pain that makes them feel like they're 'walking on a pebble'. This pain is felt due to a swollen nerve between the toes, most commonly the third and fourth toes.

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of foot pain especially in the arch and heel. While majority of people suffering from this condition know what it does, it’s also useful to know how it happens and what you can do to avoid it.

+MEDICAL DISCLAIMER

You should always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding personal health or medical conditions.

The content, products and services offered herein, are here to educate consumers on healthcare and medical issues that may affect their daily lives. Nothing in the content, products or services should be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This site and its services do not constitute the practice of any medical, nursing or other professional healthcare advice, diagnosis or treatment.

+INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

The marks "MASS4D" and the MASS4D logo are trademarks. The content and design of MASS4D.com is protected by U.S. and international copyright laws. You may not copy, reproduce, republish, upload, post, display, transmit or frame any of these materials without prior written consent from MASS4D®.

Follow

Medical Disclaimer:

The content, products or services on this site should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is not intended to provide individual medical advice. Included materials and conversations do not imply a personalised doctor-patient relationship.